I’m considering getting a new Clark Foam 03 (Hitachi) planer from Foam-EZ. It goes for about $235. I was wondering if anyone would suggest any other brand that also has sealed bearings and would work well for shaping? Or, do you know of a place with a better price? I can’t afford a Skill 100 right now. Keep in mind that I currently use a stock Makita planer which doesn’t have sealed bearings and is starting to make strange noises.
I just did a bearing change out on my Hitachi, 36.00$ from Mitch’s. My planer sound like a coffee can full of nuts and bolts. Put in a fresh set of blades, checked the bearings again, it still sounds worse than before I put in the new set, I don’t know, if they turn to metal shavings, then I’ll put in another set
GRANT, One of the main advantages of the modified Hitachi from Clark is that they loosen up the adjustment knob action, so you can make smooth changes in depth. Stock planers usually adjust with some resistance so that it will stay put when planing wood. Not good for mowing foam. Sealed bearings are a good thing, but blow out the motor, switch, and every other opening you can find, to keep it running as long as possible. Doug
Any bearing shop or tool fix it guys can help you. All bearings are sealed. You just get a different than stock bearing. Usually from Italy or Germany, or France.
I got a two imitation Makita planers (chinese made of course) on ebay for $45 each. Sharp blades, nice balance. A little modification and they’ll make a mockery of other more expensive planers including the Hitachi, which I have used, though not the modified version. I have had tool parts fail and I’ve replaced them with whatever fits. These planers have my vote, I use both of them.
First, all bearings arent sealed, i work in a skate shop and carry about 5 brands that arent, HOWEVER, i replaced the bearings in my planer with the bones super swiss…Like a dream. http://www.surfboardglassing.com